New Orleans to Convert Failing Schools to Charter

Anyone following the changes in the public education system in New Orleans, post-Katrina, knows that there is a high number of charter schools (50%) and that there is now real accountability. For any remaining skeptics who wonder if the system can be cleaned up, the superintendent, Paul Vallas, has just announced four underperforming district schools will be converted to charters. Additionally, Vallas will permit high-performing district schools to convert to charter status if they choose.

Vallas contends that preventing a "monopolistic education system" doesn't serve students well. He advocates charter schools, which operate with autonomy and are dependent upon consumer (parent) demand.